Slot Dimension Changes of New and Retrieved Damon Q Passive Self Ligating Brackets
Author(s): Anjali Anna Thomas* and Harish Babu
Abstract
Introduction: In clinical orthodontics, the proper fit between the bracket slot and the archwire is of great importance. Geometry of the bracket slot plays a major role in efficient three−dimensional tooth movement during the orthodontic treatment. Materials and methodology: Damon Q second premolar brackets with 0.022 × 0.028−inch slot size were used in this study. The study consisted of 2 groups and each group had 10 samples group1 - as received Damon Q brackets, group2 - retrieved Damon Q brackets. These retrieved Damon Q brackets were used along with damon CuNiTi archwires in the oral cavity for a period of 32 weeks. Paired t test was done to compare the mean difference in the slot dimensions (height and depth) between the as received and retrieved Damon Q brackets. Results: Paired t test showed significant difference in the slot dimensions between the as received and retrieved Damon Q brackets (P<0.05). Slot depth obtained for the retrieved brackets (0.73 ± 0.022) were significantly higher compared to the new brackets (0.66 ± 0.009) and the slot height of the retrieved brackets (0.57 ± 0.009) were less compared to the new brackets (0.61 ± 0.008).Conclusion: The slot depth of the Damon Q retrieved brackets were significantly higher compared to the new brackets and the slot height of the retrieved brackets were less compared to the new brackets.